Bloating after every meal. Random nausea. Constipation that comes and goes in waves. A lot of women start experiencing this in their 40s and think it’s food sensitivity. In reality, estrogen and progesterone directly affect gut motility—this is why GI issues spike during perimenopause. One study found 47% of midlife women report new digestive symptoms even with no diet changes. Here’s the deeper layer: Low estrogen reduces bile acids → harder to digest fats High stress raises cortisol → slows digestion Lower muscle mass → weaker abdominal support What helps: – Add soluble fiber (psyllium) – Eat cooked vegetables instead of raw – Avoid eating late—it worsens reflux – Strength training improves gut motility more than walking You’re not “suddenly sensitive.” Your gut is reacting to hormonal tectonic shifts. Tags: #GutHealth #WomensHealth